Quick Chicken Tikka Masala

If you’ve ever craved the rich, creamy, and spiced flavors of Indian cuisine but thought it was too time-consuming to make at home, this Quick Chicken Tikka Masala recipe is here to change your mind. Bursting with aromatic spices, tender chicken, and a luscious tomato-based sauce, this dish comes together in under an hour without sacrificing any of that classic flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is a surefire winner that balances ease and authenticity in every bite.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

There’s a reason why Chicken Tikka Masala has become a global favorite—it’s comfort food with a kick. This quick version simplifies the process without losing the essence of the dish. You’ll keep making it because it’s:

• Fast and approachable: Minimal prep, simple ingredients, and a one-pot sauce make cooking stress-free.
• Flavor-packed: The garam masala and spices create a complex, warm profile that’s deeply satisfying.
• Versatile: Serve it with rice, naan, or even a salad for a complete meal.
• Family-friendly: Mildly spiced with options to adjust heat, perfect for all palates.
• Nutritious: Lean chicken breast and Greek yogurt add protein and creaminess without heaviness.

Ingredient Notes

• Ginger (1 1/2 inch knob, peeled): Fresh ginger is key for that zesty warmth and subtle heat. Peel it carefully and grate or finely mince for best results.
• Garlic (4 cloves, peeled): Adds depth and aroma. Fresh garlic is always preferable over powders here.
• Yellow onion (1/2 large, peeled): Provides sweetness and body to the sauce. Dice finely for even cooking.
• Chicken breasts (1 1/2 lbs, diced into 1-inch cubes): Use boneless and skinless for quick cooking and tender bites.
• Garam masala spice blend (1 1/2 Tbsp, divided): This blend is the heart of the dish—typically a mix of cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, cumin, and coriander. Use quality store-bought or homemade for the best flavor.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors—season generously but taste as you go.
• Olive oil (2 Tbsp, divided): For sautéing and developing the sauce base. Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for richness.
• Tomato paste (1 Tbsp): Intensifies the tomato flavor and adds a slight tang.
• Ground paprika (1 1/2 tsp): Adds smoky sweetness and beautiful color.
• Cayenne pepper (1/4 tsp, adjust to taste): Adds heat—feel free to reduce or increase depending on your spice preference.
• Crushed tomatoes (1 28 oz can): The sauce’s base—choose good-quality canned tomatoes for a fresh, vibrant taste.
• Plain Greek yogurt (1/2 cup): Adds creaminess and a subtle tang. Fat-free or full-fat both work well.
• Fresh lemon juice (1 Tbsp): Brightens the dish and balances richness with acidity.
• Cilantro leaves (1/4 cup): Fresh garnish that adds a pop of color and a burst of herbal freshness.

Essential Tools for Success

• Sharp chef’s knife: For quick, precise dicing of chicken, onion, and ginger.
• Cutting board: Preferably separate boards for meat and vegetables for safety.
• Large skillet or sauté pan: Wide base for even cooking and sauce reduction.
• Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula: For stirring without scratching your pan.
• Measuring spoons and cups: Accuracy matters when balancing spices.
• Microplane or grater: For finely grating ginger and garlic if you prefer.

Quick Chicken Tikka Masala in Steps

Step 1: Prep Your Aromatics

Start by peeling and finely mincing the ginger and garlic. Dice the half onion into small pieces. These aromatics form the flavor foundation, so take your time here.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

Toss the cubed chicken breast with 1 tablespoon of garam masala and a pinch of salt. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, spreading it out in an even layer, and sear until golden brown on all sides (about 4-5 minutes). Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Sauce Base

In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the diced onion, ginger, and garlic. Sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, cayenne, remaining garam masala, and a pinch of salt. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavors.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Simmer

Pour in the crushed tomatoes. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook uncovered for 10 minutes, letting the sauce thicken and the flavors meld.

Step 5: Return Chicken and Finish Cooking

Add the seared chicken back into the pan. Cover and simmer for 7-10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 6: Stir in Greek Yogurt and Lemon Juice

Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the Greek yogurt and fresh lemon juice gently until the sauce is creamy and well blended. Adjust salt and cayenne to taste.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped cilantro leaves over the top for freshness and color. Serve hot with basmati rice or warm naan bread for a complete meal.

In-Season Flavor Ideas

• Add diced bell peppers or peas in step 4 for extra texture and color.
• Swap out the chicken for firm tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
• Stir in a handful of baby spinach or kale at the end for a nutrient boost.
• Top with toasted cashews or almonds for a delightful crunch.
• Mix in a spoonful of mango chutney for a subtle sweetness.

Testing Timeline

From start to finish, this Quick Chicken Tikka Masala takes about 45-50 minutes to prepare and cook:

• Preparation (chopping and seasoning): 10 minutes
• Searing chicken: 5 minutes
• Cooking aromatics and building sauce: 7 minutes
• Simmering tomato sauce: 10 minutes
• Cooking chicken in sauce: 10 minutes
• Final touches and plating: 3-5 minutes

Storing Tips & Timelines

Store leftover chicken tikka masala in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are even more flavorful and tender, especially when simmered. Just adjust cooking time slightly as thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook through.

Is Greek yogurt necessary in the recipe?

Greek yogurt adds a lovely creaminess and tang that balances the spices beautifully. You can substitute with plain yogurt or coconut yogurt for a dairy-free option, but the texture and flavor will vary slightly.

How spicy is this dish?

The recipe is mildly spiced with just a 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, making it approachable for most palates. Feel free to adjust the cayenne up or down depending on your heat preference.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! The sauce actually tastes better the next day as the flavors deepen. Prepare the sauce and chicken, then refrigerate. Reheat gently before serving and finish with fresh lemon juice and cilantro.

Don’t Miss These

• Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala – A pressure cooker version for hands-off cooking.
• Butter Chicken – Creamy and rich, a perfect companion recipe.
• One-Pot Vegan Tikka Masala – A plant-based take on this classic.
• Garlic Naan Bread – Essential for scooping up every bit of sauce.

Serve & Enjoy

Serve your Quick Chicken Tikka Masala piping hot over fluffy basmati rice or with warm naan bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. Add a side of cucumber raita or a simple green salad to balance the spices. This dish is perfect for cozy dinners or when you want a restaurant-quality meal at home without the fuss. Garnish generously with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon just before serving to brighten the flavors and add a fresh finish. Enjoy every bite of this delicious, comforting, and quick-to-make classic!

Bringing the warmth and richness of Indian spices into your kitchen has never been easier. This Quick Chicken Tikka Masala is destined to become a staple in your meal rotation, delivering bold flavor, tender chicken, and creamy sauce with minimal effort. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and savor the magic of this timeless dish tonight!

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